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3 Elton John Songs That Reveal a Different Side of the Piano-Rock Legend
Elton John’s “Ticking”, “Rotten Peaches” and “A Song for Guy” show sides of the pianist that differ from his more familiar, highly produced rock songs. Together, the tracks illustrate how he could use spare arrangements, country influences and instrumental music to broaden his sound.
“Ticking” centres on a driving piano line with little extra production, while “Rotten Peaches” draws on country rock and an American roots style. “A Song for Guy” is almost entirely instrumental, with only a brief lyric, and was written in memory of Guy Burchett, a young Rocket Records messenger who died in a motorcycle accident.
In short
- “Ticking” strips back John’s sound to piano and voice.
- “Rotten Peaches” explores country rock.
- “A Song for Guy” honours Guy Burchett through instrumental music.
Explained simply
Elton John is a British singer, pianist and songwriter whose career has included both piano-led songs and large, elaborate rock productions. Many of his best-known recordings were made with lyricist Bernie Taupin, who wrote words for John to set to music.
The three songs draw on different musical approaches: a stripped-back piano arrangement, country-influenced rock and mostly instrumental music. “A Song for Guy” was written in memory of Guy Burchett, a young messenger who worked for John’s record company and died in a motorcycle accident.
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